Monikie 12.30pm - 2 Little Egrets on Denfind pond still, by the remaining unfrozen water at south end. Also a third Little Eget roosting in the trees on the island nearest the fishing pier and a Green Sandpiper on the west side of Island Pond. With 2 Little Egrets reported at SWT Montrose at 13.04, looks like there are at least 5 of this species in the county. (17 miles from Monikie to SWT Montrose, so birds would need to fly at 34mph. Reported flight speeds of Herons & Egrets vary from 17 to 25mph)Jon

Now confirmed after looking at photos. 1 Adult Iceland Gull on rocks in front of the Old Brewhouse, Arbroath this morning and a second Iceland Gull a 2nd winter preening in the brackish water of the small burn on the beach at Victoria Park, Arbroath.

As per previous Text today.One Jack Snipe in the ditch at Easthaven car park, flew to boggy ground 15-20 metres to south, left in peace. Also Common Snipe further along towards Craigmill in another ditch. On the beach, 3 Bar-tailed Godwits, 3 Grey Plover, at least 5 Stonechats in various places and usual waders but not many about. Magpie pair in conifers at beach-side houses. Note, there is no water at all in the usual Jack Snipe site at Elliot but Common Snipe were seen flying near the large lagoon nearer dusk.

1 Hawfinch with Mistle Thrush and Redwing flock at the courtyard past the church, feeding in trees but being moved around by vehicles and walkers. It's likely that another two birds were Hawfinches but can't confirm. Also around the park, many more Redwings and Mistle Thrush, Jay, Buzzard and Sparrowhawk.

Note; the grounds will be open on Saturday and Sunday then closed until February 2nd, hours are 1000 to 1600. Today the underfoot conditions were icy but thawing when I left at 1330.

4 Little Egrets on the salt pans in front of the hide with at least 4 Water Rails, female Kingfisher, 1 Snipe, Grey Herons and Wigeon. The Water Rails were very active after the thaw and were seen flying and swimming and were seen in almost every pool. I never thought I'd have 4 Egrets, a Kingfisher, a Water Rail, Grey Heron and Wigeon in a single photo! Unfortunately a fair bit out in misty light.